Program Note:

To the hypnotic, evocative poetry of west coast poet, arts activist, and former singer, Reg Huston, Hagen has added three pensive, highly lyrical settings that showcase the intelligence, warmth and vibrance of voice of Juilliard-trained, world-renowned mezzo-soprano Susanne Mentzer, for whom the songs were commissioned, and who debuted them at the Barber Osher Hall of the San Francisco Conservatory where, for many years, she has been a valued member of the faculty.